We've all heard the term "First World problems", right? The relatively minor things we complain about that compared to the problems of people in developing countries are laughable?

"I didn't get any sauce at the drive-thru.""My cell phone battery loses charge too soon.""The elevator is out, so I had to take the stairs."

Well, what if we turn the concept of First World problems on its head?

I've been thinking about inconsequential experiences, simple things that make me happy and are only enjoyed in the developed world. Not profound things, like the sound of children's laughter, the magic of a perfect sunset, or even modern conveniences in general, but the smallest of things that make life simpler and more enjoyable. Here's a short list I came up with. The first one gave me the idea for this article!

First World Joys

Turning on the Keurig and NOT seeing the "Add Water" light.

Finding meat I forgot about in the refrigerator just before it expires.

Driving to work without hitting a single red light.

Getting the bedroom freezing cold so I can snuggle under warm covers.

Reaching into my purse for sunglasses and finding them right away.

Finding one last potato chip when I thought the bag was empty.

Putting on a pair of pantyhose that doesn't have any runs.

Reaching into the dryer and pulling out the right shirt on the first try.

Being the first person to use a new tube of Chapstick.

Getting a fresh pizza of my favorite kind on the all-you-can-eat buffet.

​Waking up in time to hit the snooze button for a while.

​Finding money in the pocket of a jacket I haven't worn since last season.

We are blessed with so many good things, big and small! Of course, "good" is subjective, but since these are all good to me, I think even this simple list falls under the truth of James 1:17! (Go look it up and tell me when you read it.)

The list could go on and on, but now I'd like to hear some of your ideas. What do you consider First World joys? Comment on this post or share with the hashtag #firstworldjoys.

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Thank you for visiting my blog. I share devotional and Bible study-type posts as well as musings about my life, parenting, and the writing journey. I also share important news about my books. I hope you find something encouraging and/or entertaining here.